About the Band

Ashley & Simpson

Comprised of Jennifer Ashley and Joel Simpson, Ashley & Simpson are quickly becoming folk scene favorites. This folk duo blends traditional songs and instrumentation along with beautiful vocal harmonies reminiscent of famous duos such as Ian & Silvia and The Everly Brothers. With the upcoming release of their second album “Off To Here Land” they have pushed the art of folk to a new sound with an all traditional track list that will delight fans new and old. Both bringing a classical perspective to their duo, Jennifer Ashley & Joel Simpson have reached a new level with incorporating elements of jazz, popular music and other modern styles in their arrangements.

They announced their arrival to the folk scene in October 2017 with release of their debut album, “Winnie,” an epic love story unfolding song by song, chronicling the journey of two kids in love from Smalltown, USA. Ashley & Simpson have opened for 5 time Grammy nominated blue-grass artists “Dailey & Vincent,” Grammy nominated artist Dave Rudolph, and for gold-record artist Michael Gurley (dada, Butterfly Jones, and Kiefer Sutherland Band). They have appeared on Lilli Kuzma’s Folk Festival on Chicago’s WDCB, as well as Chicago’s Windy City Irish Radio WCIR. In February 2018, Jennifer and Joel had the honor to play at the legendary TwoWay Street Coffeehouse in Downers Grove, Illinois.

Singer/Songwriter Joel Simpson plays guitar, mandolin, dobro, banjo, and bass. He performed on Rich Warren’s Folkstage as a member of Lee Murdock’s Blue Horizon band, was a 2016 Folk Alliance Official Showcase artist, and appeared on Mr. Murdock’s last two albums. He is currently a member of The Chancey Brothers, Chicago’s favorite Irish band, and released his first solo album “Irish Boy’s Dream” in February 2018. Joel lives in Darien, Illinois with his wife and three children.

Singer/Songwriter Jennifer Ashley’s first instrument is piano, but also plays guitar and banjo. Although a lifelong musician, Jennifer is newer to the folk scene. She also may occasionally be seen moonlighting as a rocker in a local 80s cover band, Turbo Shot. Jennifer lives in Hinsdale, Illinois with her husband and three children.

In addition to the expected Fall 2018 release of “Off To Here Land” the duo will be attending FARM, NERFA in 2018 and FAI in 2019. Preproduction has begun on their third album. In addition to Ashley & Simpson, the partners operate an independent record label called Randomosity Records located in Downers Grove, IL. The pair are also on the executive committee for the Maple Street Concert series in Lombard, IL.